Veteran Ribfest bands to return

Two veteran Ribfest bands will return to town this summer for the Naperville Exchange Club's annual Fourth of July weekend festival at Knoch Park.

Fest Chairwoman Julie Lichter confirmed Friday that the Charlie Daniels Band and Los Lonely Boys will play on two stages July 1 along with fest newcomer Jonny Lang.

"We're excited to have this be our opening acts and we're anxious to get everything else finalized so can release the rest of our lineup," Lichter said. "We're well on our way to a great new festival."

Contrary to prior years, Lichter said, the entertainment will be featured on two main stages with big screens.

"The Charlie Daniels Band always has been a huge traditional draw for Ribfest and Los Lonely Boys sold out when they were last here (in 2007)," she said. "Jonny Lang is up and running and has a great following, too, so we're excited to have him be there also."

Ribfest will be held July 1-4, in Naperville's Knoch Park. More bands and vendors will be announced as they are signed.